Christmas is coming! Is your shopping complete? We're talking about your Christmas menu shopping, of course! Get our free printable for an easy, stress-free grocery run.
Your Christmas Grocery Shopping List (and a Printable!)
Updated on Feb. 21, 2024
While Thanksgiving might be the food holiday of the year, there’s no doubt that Christmas can be just as much work. With cookie swaps, Christmas Eve appetizers, Christmas morning brunch, a fabulous dinner and all the occasions in between, there are a lot of moving parts. And you don’t want to forget a single thing!
That’s where we come in. We’ve got a list (and we’ve checked it twice!) to help you cook up the perfect Christmas.
Download Your Free Christmas Grocery Shopping List
To build this Christmas shopping list, we compiled all the basic ingredients you need to host your best-ever holiday, from brunch to dessert. Of course, you’ll want to jot down a few of those extra ingredients that make your Christmas recipes uniquely yours, too!
Christmas Cookies
- Butter (and plenty of it!)
- Eggs
- Flour
- Sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
Christmas Brunch
- Milk
- Eggs
- Shredded cheese
- Veggies
- Bread
- Fruit
- Bacon or sausage (or both!)
- Coffee—try the new blend from Taste of Home for free!
Cinnamon Roll CasseroleThis easy cinnamon roll casserole recipe has a delectable icing glaze over top. The secret is to make a vanilla, cinnamon and maple syrup mixture to pour over the rolls, as well as a crumbly brown sugar topping. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
When you’re looking for a kid-friendly breakfast, you can’t go wrong with this cinnamon roll casserole. Using store-bought cinnamon rolls means the casserole comes together in a snap.
Baked OmeletteI like omelets but don't always have time to stand by the stove. That's why I favor this oven-baked variety that I can quickly pop into the oven at a moment's notice. My family frequently requests this for Sunday brunch. They always empty the dish. —Ellen Bower, Taneytown, Maryland
With ham, green pepper, onion and cheddar, this baked omelette takes inspiration from a classic Denver omelet. But you can just as easily customize your mix-ins with whichever veggies, meats and cheeses suit your family’s tastes.
Sheet Pan PancakesGone are the mornings of standing over a hot griddle, making pancakes in batches and frantically serving plate-by-plate. Instead, pour your batter onto a sheet tray, divide the toppings into different sections and let the oven do the work all at once. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Sleepover mornings just got so easy. Rather than pouring and flipping endless mini pancakes, this sheet-pan recipe lets you just pour, top and bake. The best part is that you can let the kiddos add their own toppings, making this a meal and activity all in one.
Hash Brown Breakfast CasseroleA package of frozen potatoes makes this hash brown egg casserole simple to prepare. Featuring bacon and cheddar cheese, this easy egg bake is tasty breakfast or brunch fare. You can even make it the night before, keep in the fridge and bake the next morning—so convenient! —Cheryl Johnson, Plymouth, Minnesota
This hash brown breakfast casserole is one of my go-tos when I have friends coming over for brunch. It is filling, feeds a crowd and is easy to throw together while I’m getting last-minute chores done.
Baked French ToastAny day is special when Mom makes one of her French toast recipes, like this do-ahead baked version. —Jill Baughman, New York, New York
Get all the flavor and texture of French toast with a hands-off method. Top the slices with fresh berries, pair them with a mimosa and brunch is served!
Biscuits and Gravy CasseroleBiscuits and gravy are usually prepared separately but served together. I created a way to bake them all at once in this scrumptious casserole. —Nancy Mcinnis, Olympia, Washington
The key to the most flavorful sausage gravy is to start with high-quality breakfast sausage. Our picks for the best store-bought breakfast sausage include Bob Evans and Johnsonville, so they’re a good place to start.
Pancake CasseroleTrial and error have made this recipe one that my family asks for time and time again. It's so easy and incredibly good. —Ethel Sanders, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
With apples, cinnamon sugar, breakfast sausage and biscuit mix, this casserole has the perfect mix of sweet and savory. Serve the pancake casserole with some scrambled eggs and a fruit salad.
Breakfast SlidersThese breakfast sliders combine all your favorite morning foods—like eggs, bacon and bagels—into one tasty package. —Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Breakfast sliders are great when you’re feeding a crowd because you can easily double or triple the recipe, depending on how many people you plan on feeding. Plus, any leftovers can be stored individually for a quick on-the-go breakfast.
Spicy Breakfast LasagnaIt's fun to cook something new for family and friends—especially when it gets rave reviews. When I took this dish to our breakfast club at work, people said it really woke up their taste buds!
This potluck breakfast idea has everything: eggs, hash browns, breakfast sausage and two kinds of cheese. All that breakfast goodness is then layered between lasagna noodles for a unique recipe your guests will love.
Amish Breakfast CasseroleWe enjoyed hearty breakfast casseroles during a visit to an Amish inn. When I asked for a recipe, one of the women told me the ingredients right off the top of her head. I modified it a bit to create this version that my family loves. —Beth Notaro, Kokomo, Indiana
When you have a lot of mouths to feed, turn to this Amish breakfast casserole. It serves 12 and can be stretched even farther with some toast, sliced fruit and orange juice.
Mocha Cinnamon RollsI love cinnamon rolls and coffee together! They are the perfect flavor combination, which is proven by these mocha cinnamon rolls. —Victoria Mitchel, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
I made these mocha rolls for Galentine’s Day this year, and my gal pals adored them. Along with a berry salad and some cocktails, it was a delicious spread.
Breakfast CasseroleFor the perfect combination of eggs, sausage, bread and cheese, this is the dish to try. My mom and I like this sausage breakfast casserole because it bakes up tender and golden, slices beautifully and goes over well whenever we serve it. —Gayle Grigg, Phoenix, Arizona
Make-ahead breakfast lovers, rejoice! Assemble this casserole the night before your brunch and in the morning, all you’ll have to do is preheat the oven and bake.
Baked Blueberry-Mascarpone French ToastWhen I want something special to serve my guests for a Saturday or Sunday brunch, I turn to this recipe. It never fails. It's wonderful during the spring and early summer because the blueberries are particularly good this time of year. —Patricia C. Quinn, Omaha, Nebraska
While mascarpone, almonds and blueberries are a classic combination, you can certainly switch up the fruit. Raspberries, strawberries, peaches and cherries would all be wonderful in this breakfast.
Vegetable StrataWe always serve food at our Bunco games, and since one of us is a vegetarian we like to make fun meatless dishes we can all enjoy. This strata can easily be doubled and tastes fantastic hot or at room temperature. —Doris Mancini, Port Orchard, Washington
If you need a vegetarian breakfast for meat-free guests but don’t want to serve just a bunch of sweets, this strata is your answer. It’s made with a bunch of fresh veggies and herbs, and it can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Maple Bacon Walnut Coffee CakeWake up the sleepyheads in your household with this moist, tender coffee cake that’s both sweet and savory. Bacon and nuts in the crumbly topping blend with flavors of maple, nutmeg and cinnamon. Yum! —Angela Spengler, Clovis, New Mexico
Here is the perfect breakfast recipe for an office or church potluck. It is sweet and savory, doesn’t need to be warmed up and can be cut into small squares so everyone gets a bite.
Breakfast Burrito CasseroleA friend gave me this burrito casserole recipe and I modified it to fit our family. It's perfect for a brunch, because you can prep it the night before and bake it the next morning. —Krista Yoder, Due West, South Carolina
When there are too many people at the table for chilaquiles or breakfast tacos, this breakfast casserole comes in handy. I like serving it with additional sour cream, guacamole and pickled jalapenos.
Chiles Rellenos Breakfast BakeMy family loves anything with a Southwestern flavor, so I turned classic chiles rellenos into a breakfast casserole. They became fans in an instant. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Those who are spice-averse don’t have to shy away from this chiles rellenos bake. Green chiles, which are a main component of this dish, aren’t spicy at all and you can use a mild salsa.
French Toast CasseroleTopped with cinnamon and sugar, this overnight French toast casserole is my favorite way to make this breakfast favorite. Since you assemble this baked French toast the night before, you save time in the morning, and if you have an extra hungry crowd, it's easy to bake up a few batches. —Sharyn Adams, Crawfordsville, Indiana
The maple syrup in this recipe is technically optional, but is it even French toast without an egregious amount of maple syrup? I think not, but gingerbread syrup or butter pecan syrup are lovely alternatives when you’re in the mood to switch things up.
Sausage & Crescent Roll Breakfast CasseroleI made this tasty sausage and crescent roll breakfast casserole for a baby shower. It saved the day: Preparing it ahead gave me more time to finish decorating for the party. —Melody Craft, Conroe, Texas
Made with just five ingredients, this potluck breakfast is easy to prep, bake and travel with. Cleanup is just as easy if you use a disposable 13x9 pan!
Monkey Bread with Frozen Bread DoughYou can do all the prep work for this monkey bread the night before. I prepare the dough pieces and put all the sauce ingredients in the pan so it's ready for the morning. You can sprinkle chopped nuts in with the dough pieces before pouring the sauce on and baking. — Diana Kunselman, Rimersburg, Pennsylvania
This sweet, gooey monkey bread recipe is the perfect breakfast to serve when I have my nieces and nephews over for a sleepover. I sprinkle on some crumbled bacon and let them dig in to these help-yourself bites.
Fiesta Breakfast BakeI get a kick out of making breakfast for a crowd when I have weekend guests, and my family also loves breakfast for dinner. This dish was created when I combined my family's favorite southwestern flavors in an all-in-one-pan recipe. —Whitney Gilbert, Smithville, Missouri
Though plenty filling on its own, this breakfast bake would be delicious with some chorizo or pinto beans for added protein. However you make it, be sure to serve this casserole with several types of homemade salsa.
Blueberry Crunch Breakfast BakeBlueberries in season make this a very special breakfast, but I find that frozen berries can work just as well. My grandmother used to make this with strawberries and I always loved to eat it at her house.—Marsha Ketaner, Henderson, Nevada
This breakfast bake is like French toast topped with crunchy granola and fresh blueberries. Everything comes together in a 13x9-inch baking dish and can be popped into the oven for a largely hands-off breakfast.
Pecan Coffee CakeMy mom serves this nutty coffee cake for Christmas breakfast each year. The simple recipe is a big timesaver on such an event-filled morning. Everyone loves the crunchy topping. —Becky Wax, Tuscola, Illinois
Boxed cake mix and instant pudding give you a head start on this coffee cake. Feel free to switch up the cake and pudding mix flavors according to the season or occasion. Think spice cake mix for the holidays, pistachio pudding in the spring and confetti cake mix for birthdays!
Hawaiian Ham StrataI came up with this recipe because I love Hawaiian pizza and wanted a casserole I could make ahead and pop in the oven at the last minute. This is a perfect main dish to take to a potluck. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri
Taking a cue from Hawaiian pizza, this recipe features ham, pineapple and cheese for a fresh take on a breakfast casserole. You can use toasted cubes of French bread or challah in place of the English muffins in a pinch.
Fruit & Nut Baked OatmealIn my part of the Midwest, baked oatmeal is a Mennonite specialty. My daughters are always delighted if we have leftovers for them to take home.—Fancheon Resler, Albion, Indiana
Full of goodies like apples, dried cranberries, walnuts and brown sugar, this baked oatmeal will be a welcomed addition to any breakfast potluck. It’s great on its own or served with milk or Greek yogurt.
Four-Cheese Baked EggsWhen I created this dish I was thrilled that my husband enjoyed it so much. He normally prefers omelets for brunch, but devoured his first helping of these eggs, then asked for more. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Say goodbye to the days when you could make only cheese omelets on the stovetop! Now you can just whisk, pour into a 13x9 and bake for the cheesiest morning eggs. Add more seasonings, like crushed red pepper, za’atar or Italian herb blend, to the eggs for a boost of flavor.
Pear and Apple Coffee CakeThe mix of apples, pears and sour cream gives this coffee cake a moist texture. —Debbie Vanni, Libertyville, Illinois
Though the recipe calls for pears and apples, you're not limited to those fruits. Try peaches and nectarines, mixed berries, cherries or figs for a completely different flavor profile.
Italian Baked Eggs & SausageThis isn't your typical egg bake! I serve this robust casserole of eggs, Italian sausage and fire-roasted tomatoes in bowls with warm, crusty rolls spread with butter. —Shelly Bevington-Fisher, Hermiston, Oregon
This recipe is like an Italian take on shakshuka, a staple breakfast in the Middle East and North Africa. Eggs float on a bed of tomato sauce, sausage and ricotta. Be sure to eat the dish with slices of crunchy bread.
Bananas Foster French ToastMmm…bananas Foster for breakfast! This yummy baked French toast serves up all the taste of the spectacular dessert in fine fashion. —Laurence Nasson, Hingham Massachusetts
Don't worry, you won't have to light anything on fire for this French toast casserole! It features the same caramel, spices and bananas of a classic bananas Foster. However, this recipe is baked in a pan and flipped like an upside-down cake.
Overnight Asparagus StrataI've made this tasty egg dish for breakfast, brunch, even dinner as a side dish. This is not your run-of-the-mill strata. —Lynn Licata, Sylvania, Ohio
When making this veggie strata, keep an eye on the asparagus while it boils. You’ll want to cook the asparagus for only two or three minutes, then plunge it right into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This diligence ensures the asparagus doesn’t go mushy when it’s baked in the strata.
Make-Ahead Coffee CakeThis is a wonderful timesaver because it's assembled the night before. My kids think the nutty topping, sweet glaze and from-scratch cake make it the ultimate treat. —Cindy Harris, San Antonio, Texas
Make-ahead coffee cake is an ideal office potluck recipe. You can do most of the prep work the night before, and it makes 15 servings. Besides, it’s easy for co-workers to grab a slice (or three!) and take it to their desks to enjoy throughout the day.
Elegant Smoked Salmon StrataThis fancy overnight egg bake is ideal for guests. In the morning, you can simply let it come to room temperature and whip up side dishes as it bakes. Then get ready for compliments! —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
What happens when you take the creamy cheese, hearty bread and smoked salmon of a lox bagel and put it into a breakfast casserole? You get a potluck-friendly lox dish that is guaranteed to impress your guests!
Amish Baked OatmealThe first time I had this treat was at a bed-and-breakfast in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. To me, it tasted just like a big warm-from-the-oven oatmeal cookie! —Colleen Butler, Inwood, West Virginia
One of the best things about Amish baked oatmeal is that your guests can customize their bowls with whatever toppings and mix-ins they want. An assortment of toasted nuts, chocolate chips, fresh berries, and dried fruits like raisins and cranberries is a good place to start.
Oven French Toast with Nut ToppingBaked French toast makes a special morning brunch so easy! —Donna Justin, Sparta, Wisconsin
This recipe calls for ground mace, which is like a warmer, spicier nutmeg that is commonly used in curries. If you can’t find mace at your local grocery store, you can substitute additional nutmeg.
Banana Monkey BreadEveryone digs in to monkey bread thanks to its pull-apart shape. We add banana slices and pecans to top this already scrumptious showpiece for a brunch or family gathering. —Donna Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts
Those who have to feed a bunch of little ones will love this monkey bread recipe. The homemade banana bread dough takes some prep time, but it is so worth it for a unique breakfast bake.
Bacon Hash Brown BakeThis tasty side dish has wonderful from-scratch flavor that makes it wonderful for brunch. It's very popular with guests at my bed-and-breakfast.—Mark Clark, Twin Mountain, New Hampshire
Sometimes the best breakfast is just a big bowl of hash browns. The addition of bacon, onion, butter and some seasonings means you’re guaranteed to be left with an empty bowl at the end of your meal.
Broccoli Biscuit SquaresWith their cheesy biscuit-like crust, these pretty squares disappear quickly at our house. We eat them for breakfast, brunch and dinner. —Vi Janus, Pelican Lake, Wisconsin
A quick dough that starts with biscuit mix is the base of this potluck dish. Though the recipe calls for mushrooms and broccoli, you can swap in whatever vegetables are in your fridge, like zucchini, corn or leeks.
Apple Butter Biscuit Breakfast BakeMy grandmother created this recipe to use up the leftovers from Christmas Eve dinner. By combining the leftover ham and biscuits with her homemade apple butter, milk and eggs, she could serve us all a warm, delicious breakfast and still have time to spend with the grandchildren. —Mary M. Leverette, Columbia, South Carolina
Since this potluck breakfast idea calls for leftover biscuits, you can use store-bought biscuits. But you should definitely try making your own apple butter. It’s easy and tasty on toast, on coffee cake and, of course, in this recipe!
Andouille Sausage HashI threw this hash together last minute for a church brunch. Folks liked it so much they asked me for the recipe, so I scrambled to write it down. —Paulette Heisler, Tampa, Florida
This casserole uses several store-bought shortcut ingredients to make its prep work quick. The prep work can also be done ahead of time so you have one less thing to do when you get up in the morning.
Spinach Feta StrataA friend shared this strata recipe with me, and my family loved it the first time I made it. It's become a favorite way to eat spinach. —Pat Lane, Pullman, Washington
To avoid a watery strata, make sure you get as much water out of the defrosted spinach as you can. A clean kitchen towel can make wringing out the spinach incredibly easy.
Baked Two-Cheese & Bacon GritsIn the South, everyone loves three things: bacon, cheese and grits! After playing around with this recipe, I took it to my first family party as a newlywed, and it was a huge hit. This recipe has become a family tradition that I'm sure will be passed down for generations. —Melissa Rogers, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Here is a rich, cheesy potluck breakfast idea that’s good on its own or with some eggs and fresh fruit. Just be sure to allow the grits to rest a few minutes before serving so they don’t go runny.
Italian Apricot-Pancetta StrataFor me, the combination of sweet and savory along with easy preparation make this Italian-inspired strata a winning dish for home cooks everywhere! It can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as a late afternoon meal.—Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
With pancetta, mascarpone and apricot preserves, this recipe is elegant enough to serve at a bridal shower brunch or birthday breakfast. It takes some effort to prepare all the elements, which makes the dish an extra-special labor of love.
Raisin Bread & Sausage Morning CasseroleWhen we used to have Sunday breakfasts with my grandparents, my mom often made this for grandpa because he enjoyed it so much. Pork sausage and cinnamon bread taste surprisingly good together. —Carolyn Levan, Dixon, Illinois
The cinnamon-raisin bread is the star of this recipe, providing warmth from the cinnamon and sweetness from the raisins and sugar. Paired with sausage, pecans and maple syrup, this potluck casserole is a change of pace from your typical breakfast bake.
Eggs Benedict Bake with Bearnaise SauceI've made this recipe for my family every Christmas morning for 10 years—it's a food tradition that we look forward to every year. Part of what makes this dish special is the croissants that make the egg bake extra light and fluffy. —Susan Triplett, Citrus Heights, California
Finally, an eggs Benedict recipe that can feed a crowd without making you poach a dozen eggs! This casserole instead has a custard-like base, Canadian bacon and croissants for the flavors of eggs Benedict with a fraction of the effort.
Streusel-Topped Blueberry Waffle CasseroleI had company coming and needed a new breakfast casserole, so I made up this nutty idea using waffles. My neighbors and husband were happy taste testers. —Joan Hallford, Fort Worth, Texas
This potluck casserole has incredible texture due to the waffles, cream cheese and pecan streusel. It’s crisp, crunchy and creamy all at once.
Breakfast Potluck Ideas FAQ
What's the easiest dish to bring to a breakfast potluck?
The easiest breakfast potluck dish is a make-ahead breakfast casserole. They’re one-pan meals that can be assembled the night before, then baked when you wake up in the morning. This collection has many options, including baked French toast, breakfast casserole, overnight asparagus strata and make-ahead coffee cake.
What are the most popular breakfast potluck dishes?
The most popular breakfast potluck dishes include make-ahead casseroles, hash brown casseroles, cinnamon roll and French toast bakes, and breakfast sliders. Basically, anything that is delicious, easy and will feed a lot of hungry people!
What breakfast potluck ideas can I make without eggs?
Some of my favorite breakfast ideas without eggs are cinnamon roll casserole, biscuits and gravy casserole, and monkey bread with frozen bread dough. There are also a ton of breakfast potluck ideas that include eggs but aren’t super eggy, like sheet pan pancakes, fruit and nut baked oatmeal, and pear and apple coffee cake.
Ham
- Ham—here’s how to pick the right one for your dinner
- Brown sugar
- Whole cloves
Festive Ham GlazeMy glaze dates back to shortly after my husband (of 23 years now) and I were married. I cooked a Christmas ham with this glaze—and I've done it that same way from then on.
Hosting a smaller celebration this year? Try this ham steak recipe that serves just 6.
Contest-Winning Holiday Glazed HamI like to serve this juicy, mouthwatering Christmas ham recipe with mashed potatoes and colorful vegetables. The apricot glaze is delicious, and the pineapple and cloves assure a truly lovely presentation. —Diane Freeman, Falkland, British Columbia
Sweet-Spicy HamI serve this Christmas ham every year. The sweet-spicy glaze turns a plain ham into a mouthwatering sensation. Everyone who tries it loves this juicy main dish! —Jessica Eymann, Watsonville, California
Baked Ham with PineappleI first learned the technique for baked ham with pineapple for a themed dinner my husband and I hosted. Since it is widely known as the symbol of hospitality, pineapple was the star ingredient on our menu and on this lovely baked ham. —JoAnn Fox, Johnson City, Tennessee
Apricot-Glazed HamGlaze a bone-in ham with apricot jam for a Christmas entree that's beautiful and delicious. Any leftovers will make meal planning a breeze later in the week. —Galelah Dowell, Fairland, Oklahoma
Root Beer Glazed HamFor a unique spin on the traditional glazed ham recipe, try this southern specialty where the secret ingredient is root beer! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Orange-Glazed HamThis delicious Christmas ham looked like a sparkling jewel on the table when my mom served it for our holiday dinner. The flavor of the spice rub penetrates through every tender slice. Even its enticing aroma while baking can't match the wonderful taste. —Ruth Seitz, Columbus Junction, Iowa
Baked Ham with Cherry SauceThere's nothing I'd rather serve for Christmas dinner or another special occasion than succulent baked ham. My recipe features a rub that adds flavor to the meat plus a delicious cherry sauce with a hint of almond. —Lavonn Bormuth, Westerville, Ohio
Baked Ham with Honey-Chipotle GlazeYour Christmas celebration will be so simple to orchestrate with this sweet, smoky ham recipe at your fingertips. It feeds a crowd and the baked ham glaze tastes fantastic. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Honey-Glazed HamHere's an easy solution for feeding a large group. The simple honey ham is perfect for Christmas dinner, where time in the kitchen is as valuable as space in the oven.—Jacquie Stolz, Little Sioux, Iowa
Cranberry Glazed HamThat show-stopping entree you've been hoping for is right here, and it only takes five ingredients to make. The sweet and tangy cranberry glaze pairs beautifully with succulent ham. —Joni Peterson, Wichita, Kansas
Bourbon-Glazed HamSmoky and sweet flavors come through in every bite of this Kentucky-style Christmas ham. Since I found this recipe, it’s the only ham I make. —Sue Schiller, Tomahawk, Wisconsin
Apple Cider-Glazed HamWhen I wanted to try something new with our holiday ham, I created this cider glaze. It's slightly sweet but still has the spicy flavor my family craves. —Rebecca LaWare, Hilton, New York
Brown Sugar Pineapple HamThis pineapple ham glaze is straightforward and simple—just what you're looking for in a Christmas main dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Maple-Peach Glazed HamThis is one of my husband's favorite recipes. He makes it regularly for his group of friends on the weekends because it's so good and easy. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Homemade Rolls
- Yeast
- Flour
- Salt
Sage-Apple Cider BreadWho knew sage and apple cider would create such a fantastic bread? This versatile loaf that has just a hint of sweetness makes wonderful sandwiches or stuffing. It's one of the best Thanksgiving bread recipes I've served for the holiday. —Christine Wendland, Browns Mills, New Jersey
Buttery Dinner RollsThese lovely buttery dinner rolls are tender, fluffy and delicious when eaten warm from the oven. —Debbie Leonard, Roseburg, Oregon
Wild Rice & Cranberry LoavesThis is an incredibly fragrant bread with lots of texture from wild rice and dried cranberries. It's hearty enough for sandwiches, but with a touch of honey, I could even eat this for dessert! —Barbara Miller, Oakdale, Minnesota
Old-Fashioned Brown BreadThis chewy, old-fashioned bread boasts a slightly sweet flavor that will transport you back to the old days. —Patricia Donnelly, Kings Landing, New Brunswick
Oatmeal Dinner RollsThese fluffy rolls go perfectly with any meal. They have a delicious homemade flavor that's irresistible. I like them because they're not hard to make and they bake up nice and high. —Patricia Staudt, Marble Rock, Iowa
Dutch Oven BreadWho doesn't love rustic Thanksgiving bread recipes like this one? Enjoy this beautiful crusty bread recipe as is, or stir in a few favorites like cheese, garlic, herbs and dried fruits. —Catherine Ward, Taste of Home Prep Kitchen Manager
Pumpkin Knot RollsThese rolls are the lightest, most delicious ones I've ever tasted—and everyone else seems to agree. The pumpkin gives them mild flavor, moist texture and a pretty golden color. At our house, it wouldn't be the holidays without them. —Dianna Shimizu, Issaquah, Washington
Savory Stuffing BreadPoultry seasoning and celery salt make this hearty loaf taste like just like stuffing. It's the perfect bread to serve with turkey during the holidays, and it's nice for making sandwiches with the leftovers. I consider this one of my must-make Thanksgiving bread recipes. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Honey CornbreadNix the box mix for this homemade honey cornbread recipe. It’s comforting and complements savory dishes effortlessly.
Crusty BreadThis easy crusty bread recipe proves that you absolutely can make a bakery-quality loaf at home—no kneading required. Once you've mastered the basic recipe, try variations with cheddar, herbs and more.
Crescent Dinner RollsThese light, golden rolls have a heavenly homemade flavor and aroma. Mom never hesitates to whip up a batch of these from-scratch rolls, since they're a delightful way to round out a meal. —Debra Falkiner, St. Charles, Missouri
Bacon Walnut Bread with Honey ButterMy savory walnut bread filled with bacon bits and blue cheese dressing is complemented by the sweetness of honey-flavored butter. Cut yourself a thick slice, slather on the butter and enjoy!—Pam Ivbuls, Omaha, Nebraska
Pumpkin-Shaped RollsThese cute pumpkin-shaped rolls are worth the effort. They're a festive fall favorite in my household. If you don't have pumpkin on hand, try using sweet potato. —Veronica Fay, Knoxville, Tennessee
No-Fuss RollsWith only 4 ingredients, these delicious rolls are ready in no time. They're fantastic with herb butter or jam. —Glenda Trail, Manchester, Tennessee
CornbreadGolden squares of buttery cornbread pair perfectly with any comfort meal. This cornbread is crisp on the outside with a soft, crumbly interior.
Italian BreadA basket of Italian bread complements any meal. Make your own loaves at home with our simple, straightforward recipe, then use them for sandwiches or just for sopping up some sauce.
Herb Buttermilk Dinner RollsWhen I couldn't find a recipe for dinner rolls, I created my own using a variety of herbs for extra flavor. —Sue Friesen, Thorold, Ontario
Swiss Beer BreadThis recipe is a favorite of my family because it isn't greasy like most of the other cheese breads I have tried. It will not last long! —Debi Wallace, Chestertown, New York
Grandma’s Rosemary Dinner RollsMy grandma (I called her Baba) made these in her coal oven. How she regulated the temperature is beyond me! She always made extra rolls for the neighbors to bake in their own ovens. My mom and aunts would deliver the formed rolls at lunchtime. —Charlotte Hendershot, Hudson, Pennsylvania
Rosemary Walnut BreadI received this recipe from a friend who was moving into a new apartment. To celebrate, she made this bread to share and now it is served at many of my family functions.—Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island
Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes
- Butter
- Milk, cream or yogurt
Salad
- Lettuce (or other greens)
- Citrus fruit
- Dressing
Favorite Mediterranean SaladThis versatile Mediterranean salad recipe, made with crunchy romaine lettuce tossed with plenty of vegetables, briny feta and a bright red wine vinaigrette, is both healthy and delicious.
A refreshing take on the romaine salad, this salad recipe adds a colorful splash to the holiday table thanks to its cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, feta and Greek olives. Love to prepare Thanksgiving dinner in advance? This salad can be made ahead of time and dressed just before dinner.
Butternut Squash Panzanella SaladThis colorful salad is easy to make, and it's even easier if you use precut chunks of butternut squash. You can use pecans in place of the almonds or watercress instead of the arugula or spinach. —Nancy Buchanan, Costa Mesa, California
Making 8 servings, this fall recipe is perfect for serving at any mid-size holiday gathering. The key to its success? Precut chunks of butternut squash. You can also make substitutes depending on what ingredients you have on hand. Pecans are great in place of the almonds, and watercress works well instead of the arugula or spinach.
Bacon Caesar SaladFamily and friends always say my Caesar salad rivals any restaurant version. The addition of bacon is a little untraditional, but it lends a slightly smoky flavor and makes it unique. —Sharon Tipton, Winter Garden, Florida
Bring the reliability and creaminess of a restaurant-quality Caesar salad to your table with a recipe that doesn't complicate. With crispy bacon for a bit of texture and saltiness, even the salad skeptics at the table will dig in.
Roasted Pear SaladOven-roasted pears take the ho-hum out of this green salad created by our Test Kitchen staff. They tossed together a good-for-you medley of mellow pear slices, crispy greens, nuts and dried cranberries. The creamy dressing carries yet more pear flavor, sweetened with just a touch of honey.
This fantastical fall salad comes together in a bowl full of color and texture. Sweet roasted pears marry with tart cranberries, crunchy hazelnuts and watercress, bringing tons of sweetness to your bowl. Once everything is dressed in this light vinaigrette, you'll have a hard time keeping this off of guests' plates.
World’s Best Kale SaladInstead of your average dinner salad, try a kale salad. I didn't like kale until I made this! —Kathryn Egly, Colorado Springs, Colorado
The crunchy, dark green leaves of kale stand up well to the light, olive oil-based dressing for this salad. Parmesan and blue cheese make the salad unbeatable while the cranberries and almonds give us the nutty sweetness we love most in fall salads.
Mushroom PanzanellaMy fresh take on classic Italian bread salad pairs well with grilled or roasted meats. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Pillows of sourdough meet tomatoes and an assemblage of mushrooms with warmed goat cheese for a dish so comforting you'll want to curl up and eat the whole thing. Pine nuts, golden raisins and spicy arugula are the high notes in this luxurious flavor gold mine.
Boston Lettuce with Roasted Red OnionsForget boring tossed salads! This Boston lettuce salad will have your guests asking for the recipe. Top with bacon, or substitute feta for the Gorgonzola for a change of taste. —Josh Carter, Birmingham, Alabama
The day before Thanksgiving, you'll fill the kitchen with the intoxicating scent of roasting red onion, a perfect invitation to the oncoming feast. This salad tucks those magenta layers into a beautiful head of Boston lettuce, and adds dots of Gorgonzola and walnuts into this rich take on the "wedge". A dose of acid from a refreshing orange and balsamic vinaigrette makes this salad bright and assertive.
Pomegranate Splash SaladThe sparkling pomegranate gems make this salad irresistibly beautiful. My family loves it at holiday gatherings when pomegranates are in season. Even the children can't get enough of this antioxidant-rich delight. —Emily Jamison, Champaign, Illinois
Refresh everyone's palate with this callback to summer. Cool baby spinach leaves provide a platform for some briny feta cheese. There are so many flavors here to focus on—your tongue popping the juicy pomegranate seeds and sweet raspberries, the earthiness of pine nuts and a surprisingly tart cranberry and rice vinegar dressing.
Prosciutto, Pear & Burrata SaladThe idea for this salad came to me when we ordered a restaurant appetizer that was prosciutto, burrata, a little arugula and olive oil. I was inspired to make it into a salad with just a few more ingredients. Instead of pears, try the salad with melon or peaches. —Emily Miles, Sherman Oaks, California
This might be the classiest salad offering your fork will ever find. Prosciutto and fresh burrata meet spicy arugula for a wonderful textural blend. Sweet red pears and capers add a layer of complexity, and the whole shebang needs nothing more than a light dressing of olive oil and balsamic.
Turnip Greens SaladMy Turnip Greens Salad was created using items from my garden. Because most people cook turnip greens, I wanted to present those same greens in a way that would retain their nutrient content. You could also add different kinds of meat to this salad. I have used cooked shrimp, chicken or beef. —James McCarroll, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
To keep things interesting, switch out the greens in your basic garden salad with the dark, vitamin-rich green of turnip leaves. A classic Dijon vinaigrette brings together classic ingredients like cucumber, red onion and tomato, and invites some surprising bites of cranberries and feta. A pinch of cayenne gives this unintimidating salad an unexpected punch.
Bacon Pear Salad with Parmesan DressingThis simple salad is an elegant side dish for any menu. With a blend of fresh pears and warm, comforting flavors, it’s perfect for special meals. —Rachel Lewis, Danville, Virginia
Hearkening to a summer picnic table, this fall adaptation has a little of something for everyone. Kale, bacon and pepper jack make a hearty base, while pears add a crunch under the dressing of creamy Dijon and mayonnaise.
Shredded Kale and Brussels Sprouts SaladThis salad is a simple and delicious way to eat your superfoods! It gets even better after it sits for a while in the fridge, so I make it ahead. I use my homemade honey mustard dressing, but any type works just fine. —Alexandra Weisser, New York, New York
Bursting with vitamins and minerals, this powerhouse salad will ensure you get your daily vegetable intake and then some this holiday season. Make this Thanksgiving salad in advance—letting it chill in the fridge is key to allowing the flavors to meld. In need of some sweetness? A ripe pear can be quite the addition.
Brussels Sprouts & Quinoa SaladWith Brussels sprouts for the green and cranberries for the red, I make a cheery Christmastime salad. Refreshing and versatile, it works with any kind of nut or dried fruit. —Cameron Stell, Los Angeles, California
Full of festive color and flair, this Thanksgiving salad recipe is easy to modify—it works well with just about any nuts or dried fruit you have in stock.
Harvest Salad with Cherry VinaigretteMixed greens and plenty of produce make this salad so satisfying, and it's gorgeous to serve for special occasions. —Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan
If Thanksgiving is a holiday of bounty, nothing will impress like this harvest salad. Piled with color, crunch, flavor and texture, each forkful will yield a bevy of ingredients. Earthy beets and apples bring color before you embark on a rainbow of vegetables: carrots, red and yellow tomatoes and spring mixed greens.
Cran-Orange Couscous SaladI often create salads for summer using a variety of healthy, filling grains. This version with tender couscous is amped up by the bright flavors of oranges, cranberries, basil and a touch of fennel. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York
When it comes to Thanksgiving salad recipes, this contest-winning dish takes the cake. Featuring freshly chopped navel oranges, cranberries and a touch of fennel, it's the perfect dish to pair with your holiday feast.
Grilled Apple Tossed SaladThe grilled apples in this salad combine so well with the blue cheese, walnuts and balsamic dressing. I like to serve it on pink Depression glass dessert plates from my great-grandmother. —Paul Soska, Toledo, Ohio
A tangy, homemade balsamic dressing pairs well with sweet, tender grilled apples in this quick and filling Thanksgiving salad. Wondering what apple to use here? Check out our guide to the best apples for baking, cooking and eating!
Winter Beet SaladTo save a little time on this sweet and savory beet salad, we recommend using packaged salad greens in this original recipe. The simple dressing is easy to assemble. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
For fans of roasted beets, this is one of the best Thanksgiving salad recipes. And it's well worth the time it takes to come together. Take a shortcut by using packaged salad greens—just be sure to wash them.
Pear Harvest SaladWe came up with this delicious salad trying to use up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving. We think you'll love it, too! —Nancy Prewitt, Beaverton, Oregon
End up with way too much leftover turkey? Turn it into a delicious day-after-Thanksgiving salad recipe! The addition of cubed avocados, honey-roasted almonds and pears make this harvest salad not only hearty but healthy as well.
Shaved Brussels Sprout SaladThe first time my friends tasted my new side dish, they said it was phenomenal. The longer you let it chill in the fridge, the more tender the sprouts will be. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
For a low-calorie salad for your holiday party, look no further than this flavorful Thanksgiving salad recipe! The key to tender Brussels sprouts is refrigerating the salad for as long as possible before serving.
Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider VinaigretteWe bought loads of apples and needed to use them. To help the flavors come alive, I roasted the apples and tossed them with a sweet dressing. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina
You'll find all the best flavors of fall in this harvest salad recipe, like apples, maple syrup and toasted pecans. It's also the perfect fall dish to make if you have extra fruit after going apple picking.
Lemon Cranberry Quinoa SaladAs the family cook, I appreciate how easy this is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, this salad never gets boring. One of my favorite variations is to substitute diced fresh mango for the cranberries, cilantro for the parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois
Coming together in 30 minutes, this quick Thanksgiving salad recipe is light and lettuce-free. Don't like cranberries or parsley? Try using diced fresh mangoes and cilantro instead.
Sweet Potato SaladTender sweet potatoes are tossed with crunchy nuts and chewy dried cherries for a burst of flavors and textures. —Fran Fehling, Staten Island, New York
Wendy’s Apple Pomegranate SaladMy grandparents grew pomegranates, pecans and walnuts and would send us some each year. Some of my best memories are the days I used to spend with my grandmother learning how to cook with her. Whenever I make this, it's like having lunch with my grandmother again. —Wendy Ball, Battle Creek, Michigan
A longtime favorite, this tart Thanksgiving salad recipe is sure to create unforgettable memories when served at your next holiday feast. Best of all, it's ready in just 20 minutes and is only 165 calories a serving!
Kale & Bacon Salad with Honey-Horseradish VinaigretteTotally scrumptious and packed with nutrition, this salad was my response to friends who asked how they could incorporate kale into their diets without sacrificing taste. It is also wonderful made with collard or mustard greens, prepared in the same fashion as the kale, or with a mix of spinach & arugula or watercress. —Elizabeth Warren, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Uncompromising on taste, this flavorful Thanksgiving salad showcases kale, a highly nutritious green and incredible superfood. Not a fan of this leafy green? Use collards, mustard greens or a mix of spinach and arugula instead.
Pomegranate Persimmon SaladTo bring some sunshine to the table, I toss up a bright salad of persimmons and pomegranate seeds, dressed with a puckery vinaigrette. —Linda Tambunan, Dublin, California
Add some sunshine to your fall table with this quick fall salad. It's ready in just 15 minutes, so guests will be able to enjoy how the sweet, bright persimmons interact with the dish's puckery homemade vinaigrette.
Wilted Spinach Salad with Butternut SquashMake quick work of peeling butternut squash. First, prick it with a fork and give it 45 seconds in the microwave. Then, trim an inch from the base of the squash, making it stand up straight and tall while you run the peeler from top to bottom. —Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington
The epitome of Thanksgiving salad recipes, this dish feels exactly like fall. A decadent start to your holiday meal, the warm balsamic vinaigrette is key to transforming the salad's simple ingredients into something special. First time sauteing squash? Here's how to safely peel and cut winter squash.
Roquefort Pear SaladGuests at a barbecue we hosted one summer brought this cool, refreshing salad. Now it's a mainstay at many of our gatherings year-round. The mingling of zesty tastes and textures instantly wakes up the taste buds. —Sherry Duval, Baltimore, Maryland
Ready in 20 minutes, this seriously quick Thanksgiving salad is perfect for a large crowd—it makes enough for 10 servings and, aside from the dressing, only requires five ingredients! Not a fan of mustard vinaigrette? Try it with this homemade blue cheese dressing instead.
Sweet Potato & Chickpea SaladTake this colorful dish to the buffet at a family gathering, or enjoy it as a great meal all by itself. —Brenda Gleason, Hartland, Wisconsin
Perfect for a holiday potluck, this Thanksgiving salad recipe is light on the calories, but its flavors are through the roof! For an added crunch, roast the chickpeas in the oven alongside the sweet potatoes.
Citrus & Roasted Beets SaladGlistening citrus and beets star in this colorful, tangy salad. It's a refreshing mix of bright flavors—just add chicken and it's a complete meal. —Peter Eldridge, Clermont, Florida
This recipe is great if you're looking to add some color to your holiday table. The roasted beets add a rich earthiness, which is balanced out by the tart pieces of citrus. Want to make this salad more filling? Add some shredded turkey.
Hot Spinach Apple SaladWith a light sweet-tangy dressing, the spinach doesn’t wilt and the apples retain their crunch. We serve this salad with homemade bread. —Denise Albers, Freeburg, Illinois
Six ingredients and 20 minutes are all you need to bring one of our favorite Thanksgiving salad recipes to life. This holiday potluck recipe makes 10 servings of fresh green goodness!
Cranberry-Pecan Wheat Berry SaladI love to experiment with different grains and wanted to give wheat berries a try. My whole family goes nuts for this salad, especially my mom. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York
The addition of wheat berries makes this lettuce-free Thanksgiving salad recipe a filling meal all by itself. Can't find wheat berries? Instead, use kamut, a high-protein ancient grain.
Cranberry Sauce
- Whole cranberries, fresh or frozen
- Sugar
- Orange
Spiced Cranberry SauceWhile this cranberry sauce is simmering, the wonderful fragrance of the spices brings back happy memories of when my mother made it for the holidays. My husband and three sons are glad I’m carrying on her tradition! —Allison Thompson, Lansing Michigan
Cranberry Sauce with WalnutsTraditional cranberry sauce is nice, but this jazzed-up version is several steps above. It travels well, and all the women in my family serve it. The apricot preserves, lemon and toasted walnuts make it different. —Dee Buckley, Salado, Texas
Cranberry FluffThis fluffy fruit salad gets its sweet-tart flavor from cranberries and whipped cream. We like it because it's not as sweet as many other "fluffs." I'm often asked for the secret to this luscious holiday salad. —Lavonne Hartel, Williston, North Dakota
Cranberry SauceI turn to this recipe frequently because I can prepare it a day ahead—it's so convenient when company's coming. And with only a trace of fat, the fruity side dish is nutritious and delicious.—Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Grandma’s Cranberry StuffWhat could taste better than turkey and cranberry on Thanksgiving Day? My grandmother's classic recipe makes the best cranberry stuff to share with your family and friends this holiday. —Catherine Cassidy, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Christmas CranberriesBourbon adds bite to this holiday standby, packed in a small heavy-duty glass storage container with a tight-fitting lid. Wrap in a vintage tea towel or cloth napkin, cinch with ribbon and adorn with small ornaments. —Becky Jo Smith, Kettle Falls, Washington
Apricot-Apple Cranberry SauceThough I prefer this as a side dish, my sister swears it makes the best topping in the world for a slice of Thanksgiving turkey. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Cranberry ConserveI'm 95, and I still remember my grandmother from Germany making this lovely, delicious conserve for the holidays. She'd give it to family members and friends. It tastes great served as a relish alongside meat or even spread on biscuits.
-Mildred Marsh Banker, Austin, Texas
Chipotle-Orange Cranberry SauceMy family prefers traditional dishes on Christmas, but I like to add in a few of my own unique creations. With brown sugar, cinnamon and chipotle powder for a little kick, this cranberry sauce will earn a permanent spot in your holiday lineup. —Chris Michalowski, Dallas, Texas
Triple Cranberry SauceCranberry fans will ask for this sauce again and again. It's loaded with their favorite fruit—in fresh, dried and juice form. Orange and allspice make it awesome. —Arlene Smulski, Lyons, Illinois
Don’t forget to add all your family favorite ingredients to this list! Now, get that shopping done and enjoy a few Hallmark movies before company comes. You should be able to find everything your family needs for a merry Christmas! If you’re still stuck—see what stores are open on Christmas Day.
